This world class, incredibly gripping Auckland-set crime novel was picked off Upstart's slush pile. It's set in Auckland's high-stakes poker scene, both in the casino and in private locations, and weaves in money laundering, Chinese criminals, biker gangs, drug dealing, and murder. There are twists and turns to satisfy the most devoted crime reader, a good dose of humour, and the benefit of familiar locations which take on an air of menace in Lendrum's well drawn underworld. He is an author to watch.